The renowned Desert Warrior and internationally acclaimed environmentalist, Chief Dr Newton Chukwukadibia Jibunoh, on Wednesday 1st January, 2025, became the Nna-Obodo (Father) of Akwukwu-Igbo Kingdom in a well celebrated function.
The occasion also marked the 87th birth anniversary of the legendary culture icon, who became famous when he first crossed the Sahara Desert in a car from London in 1965.
The cultural funfair that was showcased at the country home of the former Chairman of Costain (West Africa) Plc was a mark of honour as the Akwukwu-Igbo community found him worthy to oversee affairs of the Kingdom as not only a widely exposed illustrious son, but as a traditionally established community leader.
In celebrating the uncommon legend in Akwukwu-Igbo, a lot of cultural activities spiced up the occasion, which includes a powerful poem by Melvis Ugo and dance by the Otu Nwatanwelinkea.
The highpoint of the occasion was the ushering in of the Nna-Obodo to the decorated Nna-Obodo chair with Egwu Ndi Nkpalor.
Addressing his people, the brave and strong Desert Warrior said, “I will not disappoint this honour bestowed on me by our revered Obi Dr David Azuka and of course, the confidence reposed in me by our people all these years. Of course, this is announcing to the world that I am already reporting for duty having been conferred Nna-Obodo by our king.
“This is a journey of seeking peace, and I cannot take it for granted. It’s a rare privilege that must not be undermined. The Chinese would say that the journey of a thousand miles begins with a step; and that is the step I have just taken. I have started my own step towards bringing about the coming together of our people in order to get to our desired destination, which is peace for our community.
“Irrespective of all that I have achieved in life, places I have been and awards received all over the world, I remain that man who knew nothing about fathering, because I had none growing up. However, to be called upon at this age to father a whole Kingdom, it is something I must not to joke about. I must say I am grateful for this honour and I will not give you reasons to doubt my capacity”, Chief Jibunoh posited.
Chief Newton Jibunoh is a world renowned environmentalist turning desert into savannah through his prestigious organisation known as Fight Against Desert Encroachment (FADE).
As a lover of nature, he built the Nelson Mandela Garden and Resort Asaba, to immortalise his friend the Great Madiba Nelson Mandela, where he has retired in to continue to advance the peace of nations, and the culture and traditions of his forebears by constantly being in tune with Anioma cultural activities.
As a mark of honour for Chief Newton Jibunoh, dignitaries from other climes, including representatives of Asagba of Asaba, Ndi Omu who came in company of Omu of Akwukwu-Igbo, Asaba airport workers, members of Civil Society Organisations, members of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Nelson Mandela Garden staff, members of Ogbe-Obi family and various quarters in Akwukwu-Igbo, well wishers and others too numerous to mention graced the ceremony to identify with the world’s iconic adventurist, Dr Newton Jibunoh.
Reported By Patrick Ochei
